break it to
Meaning(s)
1. reveal important or unpleasant news or information to someone
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
break the news to somebody
Analysis
The expression to break the news means to reveal or deliver information or news to someone. The expression to 'break it to' someone means to be the person who informs them of a particular situation or event.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I broke the bad news to Robert gently, but understandably he was still devastated.
- I hate to be the one to break it to you but you're really not as talented as you seem to think you are.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- If my boss hears about what happened from someone else she will be furious! I will have to break it to her first.
- I hate to be the one to break it to everyone but the client wasn't happy with the work we presented. We have a long day ahead of us.